Chrysler and Fiat’s IT infrastructures to be integrated by IBM

As Fiat SpA, Chrysler Group LLC and CNH Industrial NV are preparing for the final merger into Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, one very important part of their infrastructure – the computer systems – will be integrated by IBM.

IBM had already been a partner of Fiat for many years, but now the US company also won a major victory by adding the Chrysler business part, which was currently run by its now former information technology provider – CSC.

“This agreement, an extension of a decade-long partnership with IBM, will continue to provide the technology innovation, global delivery capabilities and cost effectiveness that is required to optimize and grow our business worldwide,” said Gilberto Ceresa, Fiat’s chief information officer.

“Combining Chrysler and Fiat’s IT infrastructure services into a global capability is a critical step in our journey to building a powerful and agile global operation that supports our company’s growth strategy,” said Scott Sandschafer, Chrysler’s CIO.

CNH Industrial – which is headquartered in the Netherlands – where the new Fiat Chrysler Automobiles would also be located, was created by Fiat Industrial and Case New Holland’ merger. Fiat first took partial control of Chrysler – the third US automaker – back in 2009 when the company emerged from bankruptcy. Full control was leveraged in January.